Letter to the editor: 

I am writing to the stakeholders of the city of Whitewater and to the membership of the Whitewater Aquatic and Fitness Center (WAFC), both as vital foundations of our vibrant community and our future. I write to invite you to participate in a pivotal conversation that will shape the future of our city and the WAFC. 

On Thursday, July 13, at 6 p.m., the city of Whitewater and the Whitewater Unified School District (WUSD) will hold a joint meeting to discuss a proposal that has been meticulously developed by the city’s Whitewater Aquatic and Fitness Center (WAFC) subcommittee. 

This meeting, which will take place both in person at the city of Whitewater Municipal Building and virtually via Zoom, is more than just another city council meeting. It is a platform for you to engage in a dialogue that will directly impact the health, wellness, and community spirit of Whitewater as well as the long-term viability of one of our city’s gems, the WAFC. We strongly encourage you to join us, whether via computer, smartphone or telephone, and lend your voice to this important discussion.

The proposal in the meeting agenda linked at the end and under consideration is a comprehensive six-year budget plan and operating framework for the WAFC. This plan, which includes contributions for operations and capital made by both the city of Whitewater and WUSD, as well as shared oversight, is designed to ensure the financial stability and continued operation of the WAFC. Of note, the city is proposing to freeze the school district’s contribution for operational contributions at 2023 levels for 2024 while the city will be contributing $70,000 per year, demonstrating our commitment preserving the integrity of the current hours and operations of this important facility. Though the WAFC is not just a facility; it is a symbol of our community’s commitment to promoting regional health, wellness, and collaboration. Its continued operation and pathway to growth is vital to the fabric of our city.

To that end, this proposal is the result of a proactive effort, combining elements from both the city’s proposal and the most recent WUSD proposal. The plan lays out explicit financial contributions from both parties, providing clarity and transparency that will aid in future financial planning. It also includes an annual adjustment of 3% to account for inflation, a practical measure that ensures the sustainability of our partnership over time.

Perhaps most importantly, the proposal calls for the formation of a shared leadership committee. This committee, consisting of representatives from the WUSD, city council, and community members, is designed to foster inclusivity and ensure diverse perspectives in decision-making. It is a clear demonstration of our commitment to a democratic and participatory approach to managing the WAFC.

We firmly believe that this proposal offers a practical, sustainable, and equitable solution to the challenges facing the WAFC. However, its success is not guaranteed. It hinges on the support and participation of our community. We urge you to inform yourself about the proposal, participate in the discussion, and ultimately lend your support to this initiative.

The meeting will include a period for citizen comments, during which you are invited to voice your thoughts, concerns, and suggestions. This is your chance to make a difference, to contribute to the dialogue and shape the future of our city. In addition to participating in the meeting, I urge you to reach out to your school board representatives and city council alderperson.

https://www.wwusd.org/page/school-board

https://www.whitewater-wi.gov/308/Common-Council

I’m asking that you express support and desire for the success of the WAFC. Your voice can make a difference. Your advocacy can help secure the future of the WAFC. I assure you that any correspondence I receive will be added to the public record, further emphasizing the importance of your input.

The future of the WAFC, and by extension our city, is in our hands. Let us come together, engage in constructive dialogue, and make decisions that will ensure the continued growth and prosperity of Whitewater. We look forward to your participation in this important conversation and to hearing your valuable insights.

Thank you for your time, attention, and commitment to our community. Together, we can build a Whitewater that future generations will be proud to call home.

Sincerely,

John S. Weidl

Whitewater city manager